Bear Lake by Kayak: Paddling to Sols Creek Falls in Western North Carolina
A quiet-season paddle to a hidden waterfall—with just enough challenge to make it memorable.
Dawn peels away the last of the night as the van crests a ridge, the forest thinning to a glassy shimmer of water cupped by dark-green mountains. Bear Lake—locals call it Bear Creek Lake—holds still like it’s listening. In spring and fall, when boat wakes are scarce and the air carries the clean bite of the Southern Appalachians, the lake seems to inhale on your behalf. The guides slide sea kayaks to the shoreline, paddles catching early light like wings. You push off, and the lake nudges you forward, the bow slicing a quiet V into an empty morning.
Trail Wisdom
Layer for cool mornings
Spring and fall start crisp—wear quick-dry base layers and a light shell to cut wind on open water.
Footwear that crosses over
Choose closed-toe water shoes or grippy sandals that can handle wet decks and the short, slick hike to the falls.
Manage wind and wakes
Hug shorelines if wind picks up and take incidental boat wakes at a slight angle to stay stable.
Pack personal hydration
Lunch is included, but carry at least 1–2 liters of water per person; shaded coves can still dehydrate you.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet side coves along the Sols Creek arm where rhododendron forms a natural tunnel
- •A small gravel bar near the waterfall cove that’s perfect for a snack and photos if the main landing is busy
Wildlife
Osprey and bald eagles, River otters and hooded mergansers
Conservation Note
Rinse and dry gear to prevent invasive species spread, give nesting birds wide berth, and avoid trampling fragile shoreline vegetation when landing.
Bear Lake (Bear Creek Lake) was created in the 1950s by damming the East Fork of the Tuckasegee River for hydroelectric power; today it’s maintained as one of WNC’s cleanest lakes and is regularly stocked with fish.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Calm water paddling, Wildflower and bird viewing
Challenges: Cool water temps, Changeable weather and wind
April–May delivers quiet coves, mild temps, and clear views through the trees with fewer motorboats.
summer
Best for: Family lake days nearby, Warm swims on non-guided visits
Challenges: Heavier motorboat traffic, Heat and afternoon thunderstorms
Guided trips typically pause in summer due to traffic; if you visit, start early and expect wakes and heat.
fall
Best for: Peak color paddling, Glass-calm mornings
Challenges: Shorter daylight, Crisp mornings requiring layers
September–October is prime: stable weather, striking foliage, and fewer crowds on the water.
winter
Best for: Solitude on shore hikes, Photography from overlooks
Challenges: Cold air and water, Limited access and potential closures
Not a typical paddling season here; if you’re exploring, stick to shoreline walks and watch for icy patches.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Lightweight waterproof shellEssential
Cuts wind on open water and sheds the occasional spring shower.
Quick-dry insulating layerEssential
Keeps your core warm during cool starts and shady coves.
Closed-toe water shoes with tractionEssential
Useful for slick landings and the optional short hike to the waterfall.
10–15L dry bag
Protects your phone, camera, and spare layer from paddle drip and splashes.
Common Questions
Do I need prior kayaking experience?
No. This is suitable for beginners, and guides provide instruction on basic strokes, steering, and safety.
How far is the paddle and how long does the trip take?
The route is about 5 miles round trip. With shuttle, shore lunch, and the optional short hike, plan for 6–7 hours total.
Is lunch included and can you accommodate dietary needs?
Yes, a shore lunch is provided. Notify the guides at booking of any dietary restrictions or preferences.
What should I wear for the paddle?
Dress in quick-dry layers with a light shell. Bring footwear that can get wet and handle a brief hike.
Is swimming allowed at the waterfall?
Swimming conditions vary with temperature and flow; ask your guide on the day of the trip and follow their safety call.
What happens in bad weather?
Guides monitor conditions and may adjust timing or cancel if necessary. If a cancellation occurs, they will work with you on options.
What to Pack
Quick-dry layers for cool mornings; closed-toe water shoes for landings and the short hike; 1–2 liters of water in a reusable bottle; a compact dry bag for your phone, extra layer, and camera.
Did You Know
Bear Lake—also known as Bear Creek Lake—was formed in the 1950s when the East Fork of the Tuckasegee River was dammed, creating a 500-acre reservoir with approximately 13 miles of shoreline.
Quick Travel Tips
Book early—trips run Thursdays in spring and fall and group size is limited; Arrive layered and ready to paddle so you can launch quickly in calm morning conditions; Expect limited cell service near the lake—download maps and confirmations beforehand; Tell your guide about dietary needs at booking so your shore lunch is dialed.
Local Flavor
After your paddle, head to the Forks Of The River Taproom for a post-trip pint. In Brevard, refuel with wood-fired pies at Pi-Squared or seasonal Southern plates at The Square Root, then cap the evening with a stroll past live music on West Main. Coffee for the drive? Bracken Mountain Bakery has you covered.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Asheville Regional (AVL). Meeting point: Headwaters Outfitters near Rosman; approx. 45-minute shuttle to Bear Lake. Driving: About 1 hour from Brevard to the lake area. Cell service: Spotty around the reservoir—plan offline. Permits: Included with outfitter; no personal permits needed for participants.
Sustainability Note
This reservoir feeds regional ecosystems and recreation—pack out all trash, minimize shoreline impact during landings, and clean/dry gear to prevent invasive species transfer between waterways.
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